Former professional dancer Catriona Murdock and her business partner Clare Quinn have bought the business, known as DMA, from its founder Deana Morgan, who now becomes a patron after 19 years as its principal.

DMA, based at The Studios in Shipley, is accredited by the Council for Dance Education and Training (CDET).

Kimberley Walsh of Girls Aloud is one of many former students who are now working professionally. These also include Joshua Barwick, who returned to Bradford just before Christmas to perform at the Alhambra with contemporary dance company Rambert.

The school currently offers more than 60 weekly sessions in a wide range of dance disciplines for all ages and abilities from pre-school to adults. The studios also regularly host masterclasses with leading industry professionals as well as specially organised school holiday clubs.

New co-owner Catriona Murdock said: "Deana has created a safe and caring environment with a highly skilled and qualified faculty of teachers who share her vision to pass on a love of dance and performance.

"We are excited to be leading the school into its next development phase and to bring about change to ensure Bradford enjoys some of the most coveted dance teaching facilities, tutors and opportunities in the region."

Co-owner Clare Quinn added: "We've already announced plans to give the studios a bit of a facelift, and Catriona and I will be working hard to make sure 2018 is full of exciting opportunities for our wonderful dancers to develop and show-off their amazing talents.

"This region has a fantastic reputation for dance and we want to build on that reputation and contribute to its position as a leading light in the arts, by nurturing and celebrating our home-grown talent."